The Resilient Veteran

QPR Training
2023-11-08 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York)
QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is someone in a position to recognize a crisis and warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide.
Pennsylvania suicide rates, especially in rural counties, are higher than the national average. QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is an individual who can recognize a crisis and the warning signs of someone possibly contemplating suicide. Anyone can become a gatekeeper: parents. friends, neighbors, teachers, athletic coaches, ministers, doctors, nurses, office supervisors, squad leaders, foremen, police officers, advisors, caseworkers, firefighters, etc. Gatekeepers come from all walks of life and do not require any prior training or education.
Click on the image to download. You can access the registration online. Please contact us if you experience challenges with registration.
We look forward to meeting you at an upcoming training session!

QPR + CALM Training
2023-11-10 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-01-25 13:00 - 16:00, 2024-01-29 09:00 - 13:00, 2024-02-09 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-02-27 11:00 - 14:00, 2024-03-13 08:30 - 11:30, 2024-03-27 14:00 - 17:00, 2024-04-05 14:00 - 17:00 and 3 more dates
QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is someone in a position to recognize a crisis and warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide.
This date also offers a 1-hour Counseling on Access to Lethal Means Training (CALM) directly after the QPR sessions. You can opt-in to one or both trainings.
Pennsylvania suicide rates, especially in rural counties, are higher than the national average. QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is an individual who can recognize a crisis and the warning signs of someone possibly contemplating suicide. Anyone can become a gatekeeper: parents. friends, neighbors, teachers, athletic coaches, ministers, doctors, nurses, office supervisors, squad leaders, foremen, police officers, advisors, caseworkers, firefighters, etc. Gatekeepers come from all walks of life and do not require any prior training or education.
Click on the image to download. You can access the registration online. Please contact us if you experience challenges with registration.
We look forward to meeting you at an upcoming training session!

Pittsburgh Veterans Day Parade
2023-11-11 10:30 - 12:30
Pittsburgh is home to many things- great sports, great food, our beautiful skyline.
Did you know that Pittsburgh is home to one of the LARGEST and LONGEST running Veterans Days Parades in the Country? The Pittsburgh Veterans Day Parade has run every year since 1919.
Pennsylvania is home to the 4th largest population of Veterans- and Southwestern PA is home to many of them. It is our honor to remember the commitment of these men and women every year at the Pittsburgh Veterans Day Parade.
The parade features groups representing veterans of all eras, military units, civic and youth groups (including Junior ROTC), businesses, and more. Floats, military and vintage vehicles and other special elements add to the spectacle and excitement.

November 11, 10:30 am Rain or Shine
The Parade starts at the intersection of 10th and Liberty Avenue and proceeds along Liberty.
The parade features groups representing veterans of all eras, military units, civic and youth groups (including Junior ROTC), businesses, and more. Floats, military and vintage vehicles and other special elements add to the spectacle and excitement.

Don’t Miss Our Flyover- Five fighter jets from Langley Air Force Base, VA for the Pittsburgh Veterans Day Parade!
They will fly up the Ohio River toward Point State Park and then up Liberty Ave at 1130 a.m. First time in Pittsburgh Veterans Day Parade History!

Learn more, watch videos of past parades at https://pittsburghveteransparade.com/

QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
2023-12-08 13:00 - 15:00
QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
HELP PREVENT SUICIDE
Suicide prevention training webinars aim to save lives. Learn steps you can take to save a life and reduce suicidal behaviors in your community. Question, Persuade and Refer is an emergency health intervention program designed to give you practical tools and techniques to address and prevent suicide. Gain insights to recognize warning signs of suicide in friends, coworkers, family members or neighbors in need. Anyone concerned about helping others may participate in QPR. Discuss potential scenarios and engage active listening and persuasion techniques.
WEBINAR SCHEDULE
Plan to attend one of these 2-hour webinars to learn how to identify and interrupt a crisis and to direct someone to proper care.
+ 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13
REGISTER AT:
extension.psu.edu/qpr-clearfield-jefferson
Once registered, you will receive a link to access the webinar.
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Penn State Extension at 1-877-345-0691 in advance of your participation or visit.
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Code 6728 | U.Ed. AGR 23-42 | Rev.25C07/23mpc

QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
2023-12-13 10:00 - 12:00
QPR for Clearfield and Jefferson Counties
HELP PREVENT SUICIDE
Suicide prevention training webinars aim to save lives. Learn steps you can take to save a life and reduce suicidal behaviors in your community. Question, Persuade and Refer is an emergency health intervention program designed to give you practical tools and techniques to address and prevent suicide. Gain insights to recognize warning signs of suicide in friends, coworkers, family members or neighbors in need. Anyone concerned about helping others may participate in QPR. Discuss potential scenarios and engage active listening and persuasion techniques.
WEBINAR SCHEDULE
Plan to attend this 2-hour webinar to learn how to identify and interrupt a crisis and to direct someone to proper care.
+ 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13
REGISTER AT:
extension.psu.edu/qpr-clearfield-jefferson
Once registered, you will receive a link to access the webinar.
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Penn State Extension at 1-877-345-0691 in advance of your participation or visit.
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Code 6728 | U.Ed. AGR 23-42 | Rev.25C07/23mpc

Community Resilience Conference
2024-03-01 08:00 - 17:00
Building Domains of Resilience: Purpose. Perspective. Relationship. Wellness.
3rd Annual Erie County Community Resilience Conference
Building Domains of Resilience: Purpose. Perspective. Relationship. Wellness.
Friday, March 1st, 2024
CONFERENCE DETAILS
• This conference will be a virtual event.
o General Admission is FREE, but you MUST register to receive the Zoom links.
o If you require Continuing Education Credits, fees may apply.
• If you cannot join us on March 1st, but would like to view the sessions, all sessions will be recorded and made available via our website for 60 days after the conference.

QPR at Slippery Rock University, Butler, PA
2024-03-07 09:00 - 11:00
QPR at Slippery Rock University, Butler, PA
Learn How To…
Identify myths & facts about suicide
Recognize the signs that someone may be contemplating suicide
Persuade the person to stay alive long enough to get help
Refer to a professional for help to get them through the crisis
Ask Questions to assess the situation
March 7, 2024 9:00am
Butler SUCCEED
150 N Main St, Butler
Register online at http://tiny.cc/BCQPR
For more information contact Amy Cirelli at 724-284-5114

1st Annual Veterans Chow Hall in Erie, PA
2024-03-09 10:30 - 14:00
1st Annual Veterans Chow Hall
An event presented by Bodhi Garden Initiative and the Robert Irvine Foundation
Veterans Chow Hall at Voodoo Brewery
716 State St
Erie PA 16501
Saturday, March 9, 2024
11 AM – 2:00 PM EDT
Register online to attend!
Register today to attend the “1st Annual Veteran Chow Hall” at Voodoo Brewery located in the historic Boston Store in downtown Erie, PA. The event aims to raise awareness for Veteran suicide prevention and will feature a menu designed by celebrity chef Robert Irvine and prepared by U.S. Marine Veteran and chef Shane Cash.
Suicide is a public health concern and a leading cause of death in the United States. More investment in suicide prevention, education, and research will prevent the untimely deaths of thousands of Americans each year. In Pennsylvania, suicide ranks among the top 10 causes of death for ages 64 and younger. Veterans may be more susceptible to suicide due to the physical and mental stresses that are common among former and active military.
Throughout the 15-county region of Northwest Pennsylvania, Pitt’s Veteran Suicide Prevention Program collaborates with healthcare partners, community organizations, Veterans, and their families to eliminate suicide deaths. By focusing on resiliency and protective factors, the program aims to improve access to treatment and support services, increase awareness of suicide risk, and provide targeted suicide prevention activities and training opportunities. The program’s public-facing materials, resources, and events can be found at TheResilientVeteran.org
Veterans and their families are invited to attend the luncheon. You can also email Michael Shannon at Bodhi@Bodhigardeninitiative.com to register or receive additional information.

INTEGRATING TRAUMA INFORMED CARE INTO SUICIDE RESPONSE (ITIC)
2024-03-19 14:00 - 15:00
INTEGRATING TRAUMA INFORMED CARE INTO SUICIDE RESPONSE (ITIC)
Suicide Prevention Training
The Integrating Trauma Informed Care into Suicide Response course will describe the role of trauma in both risk for suicide behaviors and in coping with suicide loss. It is a one-hour virtual training primarily designed for those who work with people at risk for suicide, such as health care providers and social service professionals.
The curriculum covers the role of trauma in suicide risk, the SAMHSA principles of trauma informed care, as well as specific trauma informed strategies to utilize with survivors of suicide.
Trainings are open to anyone and will be delivered virtually, via Zoom.
Funded by the CDC’s Division of Injury Prevention
Call: 878-208-8186
Email: pag109@pitt.edu
SIGN-UP TODAY!
https://tinyurl.com/4p6kamf7
Upcoming ITIC Training Sessions:
• Tuesday, March 19th , 2024 from 2:00-3:00 PM
• Monday, April 15th , 2024 from 2:00-3:00 PM
• Friday, May 10th , 2024 from 1:00-2:00 PM

Mental Health Crisis Planning: How to Develop a Proactive Strategy
2024-03-27 19:00 - 20:30
Wednesday, March 27, 2024, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm ET
Register Now
Caregivers often find themselves hoping for the best, while preparing for the worst. When your loved one is facing a mental health crisis, they may not be able to communicate their preferences for care. For caregivers to be effective, they need to have the right resources and support. This is when having a crisis plan – which may include a Psychiatric Advance Directive (PAD) – becomes crucial.
In this webinar offered by Families for Depression Awareness, you will hear firsthand experiences of people with mental health challenges who used a Psychiatric Advance Directive to support their journey in recovery.
You will learn about the key components of a crisis plan and practical strategies for caregiver involvement in the crisis planning process. Join us for this informative webinar and gain the knowledge and tools you need to navigate mental health crises with confidence.

Preventing Substance Use Disorders Among Military Youth
2024-03-28 14:00 - 15:30
Risk and Protective Factors Unique to Military Youth
Date: March 28, 2024Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Learning Objectives

Understand potential risk and protective factors for substance use among military-affiliated youth
Identify national resources that are available to mitigate substance use risk among military-affiliated youth
Illustrate the importance of a trauma-informed approach in responding to the needs of military-affiliated youth

Presenter

Gregory Leskin, Ph.D., Director, National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) Military and Veteran Families, UCLA National Center for Child Traumatic Stress

Register online

DoD Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Summit
2024-04-05 10:00 - 14:00
Friday, April 5 · 10am – 2pm EDT

DoD Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Summit
Join us for the DoD Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Summit at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center in Carlisle, PA, USA. This in-person event (no fee) aims to raise awareness and prevent sexual assault within the military & civilian community for SAAPM. Together, we’ll hear from a military survivor, learn from panel discussions from professionals in the community, and share resources. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with experts, survivors, and advocates in the field. Let’s work towards a future free from sexual assault in our armed forces.
This event is open to all – civilian, military members, and military spouses.

Register to attend

INTEGRATING TRAUMA INFORMED CARE INTO SUICIDE RESPONSE (ITIC)
2024-04-15 14:00 - 15:00
INTEGRATING TRAUMA INFORMED CARE INTO SUICIDE RESPONSE (ITIC)
Suicide Prevention Training
The Integrating Trauma Informed Care into Suicide Response course will describe the role of trauma in both risk for suicide behaviors and in coping with suicide loss. It is a one-hour virtual training primarily designed for those who work with people at risk for suicide, such as health care providers and social service professionals.
The curriculum covers the role of trauma in suicide risk, the SAMHSA principles of trauma informed care, as well as specific trauma informed strategies to utilize with survivors of suicide.
Trainings are open to anyone and will be delivered virtually, via Zoom.
Funded by the CDC’s Division of Injury Prevention
Call: 878-208-8186
Email: pag109@pitt.edu
SIGN-UP TODAY!
https://tinyurl.com/4p6kamf7
Upcoming ITIC Training Sessions:
• Monday, April 15th , 2024 from 2:00-3:00 PM
• Friday, May 10th , 2024 from 1:00-2:00 PM

"Talk. They Hear You."® Resource for Military Families
2024-04-18 14:00 - 14:30
“Talk. They Hear You.”® Resource for Military Families
Date: April 18, 2024Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Learning Objectives

Discuss ways to prevent underage drinking and other substance use among youth
Discover resources for parents, caregivers, community, partners, educators, and more about having informed conversations
Identify opportunities to empower the voices of military-affiliated youth

Presenter

Robert M. Vincent, M.S.Ed., Associate Administrator, Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Policy, Office of the Director, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Center for Substance Use Prevention

samRegister Online

ATP 5K - Run, Walk, Ruck
2024-04-28 08:00 - 13:00
ATP is a registered 510(c)(3) nonprofit, providing physical wellness and mental health services to Veterans & First Responders confidentially and free of charge through our Aurelius program. Individuals in our Aurelius program will receive a minimum of 3 physical wellness sessions per week, 4 Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) sessions per week, mental health counseling each week, and 2 adventure days per month for a total of 12 weeks. ATP also has programs for individuals living with neurological or chronic disease & illness, programs for kids, seniors, and athletes. We focus on incorporating strength and aerobic exercise, in combination with balance elements and movement patterns to take a whole body approach in improving functional performance and wellness.
First Annual ATP 5K – Run, Walk, & Ruck

All ages and fitness levels are welcome!
Registration Fee : $35 Adults, $30 Veterans/First Responders, $15 Children 12 and under
Learn more and register to attend online

Options to Run, Walk, or Ruck.

The first 75 participants will receive an ATP drawstring bag and ATP Shirt.
All proceeds benefit nonprofit Adventures in Training with a Purpose, and their military & first responder program, Aurelius.
Advance packet pickup available from AppRunCo on April 27th from 10:00am – 2:00pm. The address for packet pickup is 10616 Perry Hwy, Wexford, PA 15090
Day of registration begins at 7:30am. Registration ends promptly at 8:30am, no exceptions.
The race will begin at 9:00am at the North Park Boathouse: 10301 Pearce Mill Rd, Allison Park, PA 15101.
Post Race Party following the event at Latrobe Shelter & Playground. Address for the post race party is: 991 Tennis Ct Rd, Allison Park, PA 15101

Awards will be given to the following:
Overall Top 3 – Male
Overall Top 3 – Females
Top 3 Seniors (60+)- Male
Top 3 Seniors (60+)- Female
Top 3 Finishers – Children 12 & Under, Male
Top 3 Finishers – Children 12 & Under, Female
Top 3 Finishers – Ruck, Male
Top 3 Finishers – Ruck, Female
Ruck pack weights:
* If you weigh >150 lbs = 30 lb. Ruck Plate
* If you weigh < 150 lbs = 20 lb. Ruck Plate
– Water/Hydration. 1L minimum required. Hydration Bladder and a Nalgene recommended.
Following the race, we will have a post-race party on the second floor of the boathouse.

Packet Pickup Information
Advance packet pickup available from AppRunCo on April 27th from 10:00am – 2:00pm. The address for packet pickup is 10616 Perry Hwy, Wexford, PA 15090.

Mind-Body Workshop
2024-05-04 10:00 - 11:30
Join the American Red Cross for Introduction to Mind-Body Skills. This workshop teaches:
• Breathing
• Mindfulness Techniques
• Stretching and Movement
• Body Awareness and Functioning
• Guided Imagery
When: May 4th at 10am-11:30am
Where: American Red Cross Southwestern PA Chapter, 2801 Liberty Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Service members, veterans and their families are taught how to improve their wellbeing through skills that connect the body with the mind. Attendees learn the foundational tools from which they can build a mind-body practice for themselves to reduce stress and improve personal wellness.
Who Should Attend this Workshop?
o Active duty service members
o Service-separated (all types) and retired veterans
o Members of the Guard and Reserves
o Family members, both dependent and non-dependent
For more information please email ryan.erdman@redcross.org

INTEGRATING TRAUMA INFORMED CARE INTO SUICIDE RESPONSE (ITIC)
2024-05-10 13:00 - 14:00
INTEGRATING TRAUMA INFORMED CARE INTO SUICIDE RESPONSE (ITIC)
Suicide Prevention Training
The Integrating Trauma Informed Care into Suicide Response course will describe the role of trauma in both risk for suicide behaviors and in coping with suicide loss. It is a one-hour virtual training primarily designed for those who work with people at risk for suicide, such as health care providers and social service professionals.
The curriculum covers the role of trauma in suicide risk, the SAMHSA principles of trauma informed care, as well as specific trauma informed strategies to utilize with survivors of suicide.
Trainings are open to anyone and will be delivered virtually, via Zoom.
Funded by the CDC’s Division of Injury Prevention
Call: 878-208-8186
Email: pag109@pitt.edu
SIGN-UP TODAY!
https://tinyurl.com/4p6kamf7
Upcoming ITIC Training Sessions:
• Friday, May 10th , 2024 from 1:00-2:00 PM

Join the Caregiver Support Program
2024-05-15 19:00 - 20:00
Join the Caregiver Support Program
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) is excited to continue virtual events for caregivers of Veterans. Check out May’s schedule below.
Calls will be held on the following dates and times:
Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. ET
Wednesday, May 22 at 3 p.m. ET
To listen to the CSL monthly education calls, dial +1 347-566-4838 Conference ID: 521 546 087#. Caregivers who are unable to listen to the calls can access presentations on the CSL webpage.
Reach Out to Your Caregiver Support Team!
Every VA facility has a Caregiver Support Team (CST). CST’s provide support and service referrals, and valuable information about resources to help you stay informed and supported as you care for your Veteran. Contact your local CST to learn about more events happening in your area.

SAFE Project | SAFE Veterans
2024-05-16 14:00 - 15:30
SAFE Project | SAFE Veterans
Date: May 16, 2024Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Learning Objectives

Discover workshops geared toward supporting military families and caregivers
Learn how the Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic (SAFE) Project is working with civilian and Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals to educate on opioids and discuss alternatives
Understand how the SAFE Project is working to promote wellness among those who serve and their family members

Presenters

Kelly Niedzwiecki, M.M.A.S., Senior Director of SAFE Veterans, SAFE Project
Leslie Plaia, M.Ed., Executive Director, Substance Use and Behavioral Health, SAFE Project

Register online

Join the Caregiver Support Program
2024-05-22 15:00 - 16:00
Join the Caregiver Support Program
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) is excited to continue virtual events for caregivers of Veterans.
A call will be held on Wednesday, May 22 at 3 p.m. ET
To listen to the CSL monthly education calls, dial +1 347-566-4838 Conference ID: 521 546 087#. Caregivers who are unable to listen to the calls can access presentations on the CSL webpage.
Reach Out to Your Caregiver Support Team!
Every VA facility has a Caregiver Support Team (CST). CST’s provide support and service referrals, and valuable information about resources to help you stay informed and supported as you care for your Veteran. Contact your local CST to learn about more events happening in your area.
